Vincent Aboubakar – The perfect striker for Boro?

Firstly, Boro have been intensively scouting Portugal for the best part of 3 years, focusing specifically on Porto and Benfica. We are yet to see an arrival from either club, despite the near capture of Victor Lindelof in January, but its evident from his performances for club and country that Boro must be interested. The huge ambition Boro have has already been shown in this window, bringing in house-hold names such as Victor Valdes and Alvaro Negredo.

The latter is now one of 3 identified front men at the club, along with David Nugent and Jordan Rhodes. Both strikers are so far unproven in the league, but will feel they have a point to prove. Nugent claimed 7 goals and assists in the league last season, a respectable amount for the experienced journeyman. Rhodes, who arrived in January, has managed 6 goals and 2 assists for his new club so far.

At Boro, the striker has never been the main man for years. No longer do we see the days of Fabrizio Ravanelli, Alen Bokšić or fan favourite Massimo Maccarone. The way we set up last season, we relied on the goals of the front four, not just the frontman, with Stuani finishing as the club’s top goalscorer from the right wing. I believe that with some like Aboubakar in the side, that could all change. He is the definition of a complete forward. Pace, strength, finishing ability, flair. There is nothing he doesn’t have. At a young age of just 24, he is a must buy if Boro are looking to cement their place in the league. He has proved in Portugal that he is not to be overlooked, ending the season with a mouthwatering 24 goals and 13 assists in just 28 games. It is clear Boro still lack the pace and intensity up top, and this could be the man to deliver it.

However, he has been touted by the likes of Arsenal, Juventus and Leicester in recent weeks, but anything concrete is yet to emerge. Boro should move swiftly to make this deal happen under the noses of their Premier League rivals. Steve Gibson, if you’re reading, get this man in.